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Romantic

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Zora Mihailovich was a Serbian classical music artist who was born on August 22, 1931, in Belgrade, Serbia. She was the daughter of a prominent Serbian composer, conductor, and musicologist, Kosta Mihailovich, who was also a professor at the Belgrade Music Academy. Zora grew up in a musical family and was exposed to classical music from a young age. She began playing the piano at the age of six and showed exceptional talent and dedication to music. Zora's musical education began at the Belgrade Music Academy, where she studied piano with Ljubica Maric and composition with her father, Kosta Mihailovich. She graduated from the academy in 1954 with a degree in piano performance and composition. After graduation, Zora continued her studies in Paris, where she studied with Nadia Boulanger, a renowned French composer, and teacher. Boulanger was impressed with Zora's talent and encouraged her to pursue a career in music. Zora's career as a pianist began in the 1950s when she started performing in concerts and recitals in Serbia and other parts of Europe. She quickly gained a reputation as a talented and versatile pianist who could play a wide range of classical music styles. Her performances were praised for their technical precision, musicality, and emotional depth. One of Zora's most significant performances was at the 1958 International Tchaikovsky Competition in Moscow, where she won the third prize in the piano category. The competition was one of the most prestigious classical music competitions in the world, and Zora's success there helped to establish her as a rising star in the classical music world. Zora's career continued to flourish throughout the 1960s and 1970s, as she performed in concerts and recitals all over the world. She was particularly well-known for her interpretations of the works of Serbian composers, including her father, Kosta Mihailovich. Zora's performances of her father's music helped to bring his work to a wider audience and cemented his reputation as one of Serbia's most important composers. In addition to her career as a pianist, Zora was also a respected composer. She wrote music for a variety of instruments and ensembles, including piano, orchestra, and chamber music. Her compositions were characterized by their lyrical melodies, rich harmonies, and emotional depth. Zora's music was performed by many of the world's leading classical musicians and ensembles, and she received numerous awards and honors for her work. One of Zora's most significant awards was the Order of St. Sava, which she received in 2001. The Order of St. Sava is one of Serbia's highest honors, and it is awarded to individuals who have made significant contributions to Serbian culture and society. Zora's award recognized her lifelong dedication to classical music and her role in promoting Serbian music and culture around the world. Zora continued to perform and compose music well into her later years. She remained an active member of the Serbian classical music community and was a mentor to many young musicians. Zora passed away on December 12, 2018, at the age of 87. Her legacy as a pianist, composer, and ambassador of Serbian classical music lives on through her recordings, compositions, and the many musicians she inspired and mentored throughout her career.

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